I don't have an 883 (but have owned them in the past). In "my" opinion, if you want to go to 1200, buy a 1200. IF you are not mechanically inclined then you have to pay someone to do it. By the time you add everything up you are near the cost of a 1200.

I guess it depends on the money you have at the time. If you can't afford a 1200, then getting the 883 initially and then later upgrading makes some sense (or insurance issues, etc).

I would not trade my 1200 for an 883 with a 1200/1250 kit installed. In the long run, the 1200 will be worth more upon resale.

 

There's nothing wrong with a 1200 conversion. Love the look of my Iron and it would of been fun if it came with a 1200 straight outta box.

 

You have to remember that you can not buy a 1200 any more that even vaguely resembles yours. Some like the "traditional" Sportster looks.

 

Some of us had much rather have a 1250 we built. can't get much more custom than building your own motor. it's fun, a learning experience and something to be very proud of. with the parts being made today and the quality of headwork the only thing that is going to create problems with a conversion is the person not following the very simple instructions for the rebuild. the stock motor was put together exactly the same way and has the same chances for problems. if you have any plans for anything other than stock engine, the 1250 kit and headwork is a no brainer compared to the 1200 kit being offered by harley. a 1250 iron is a sweet ride!

 

I'm not talking about buying an already modded 883, I'm just saying in general

Another thing that I don't get is why people don't understand that a guy may want the look of an Iron but with 1200+ power. There is no other Sporty that looks like the Iron and is a 1200 so a conversion is the only route.

Another thing I don't get- I don't buy a bike or car for what it will resale for, I can't stand that, never made sense to me. I really don't care right now what my bike or car will resale for years from now, I'm going to enjoy it now and do whatever I want to it now not worrying about its resale.

Stop worrying about your bikes resale and enjoy it now, who gives a crap what it will resale for, unless your like flipping bikes lol who cares. You don't buy something for what you can sell it for down the road you buy it to enjoy it!!!!

 

very well said^^^ anyone buying a sportster for resale value is missing the point. i may sell mine someday, but it would only be to a friend so i could see them enjoy it.

 

Agreed, sold my 70' Shovel in 2010, 88' flh in 2011, not to concerned about resale on my 07' at this time. I would still have the Shovel except for Dr. bills.

 

Very well said, sir.

Stop worrying and RIDE!

 

To all the above posts - mithion, Iron1250/ that is what I was saying I totally agree. I bought my Iron for the looks , not for reselling the bike. I plan on keeping my Iron. I enjoy doing upgrades and working on my bike.

 

I went 883 since I wanted the look of the Iron and I knew I wanted to build it hotter than a stock 1200. I see no reason to buy a 1200 only to tear it down and build the motor. For me, it made more sense to go 883 and plan the motor build that I wanted. This gives me maximum flexibility and saves money. I want 100 ponies. With the 883 gearing, 100 HP should be a blast and surprise a lot of folks.